GRAPHIC CONTENT: Worst cases of animal cruelty

WARNING GRAPHIC CONTENT: As part of our new 'STOP THE CRUELTY' campaign we take a look at some of the most horrific cases animal cruelty.

Handout photo issued by the Orangutan Foundation of Aan, a critically-endangered orangutan who was blinded after being shot more than 100 times with an air rifle. Aan is to undergo an operation that could restore her sight.

Mr Fisher said: "If you watch it, after a while she's just had enough. You can't blame her. Two times he tries to pick her up then backs off when she sticks her claws out.

"The thing is, most cats will run away if they see a person but Sky is so friendly and approachable.

"She's too trusting of people and that's what annoys me the most. She probably thought he going to give her a stroke and play with her, not attack her.

"She only really goes out the front for a couple of hours a week. Most of the time she's in the house or in an enclosed back garden.

"The police have said there's nothing they can do because he's a minor and the RSPCA have taken my details.

"Sky hasn't any got any lasting damage, not that I can see through all her fur anyway. You can't ask a cat how it is and they can't exactly come in and tell you what's happened.

MERCURY

The cat pounces and scratches the boy before fleeing

"People have said to me about how kids who abuse animals go on to abuse other humans. It really frightens me that someone would do this to a defenceless animal."

An RSPCA spokesman said: "The RSPCA's ambition is for a world in which all people respect and live in harmony with animals.

"Therefore, as an organisation, we encourage everyone - no matter their age - to treat animals with compassion and kindness.

"Just as parents teach their children how to safely cross a road, it's also their responsibility to show youngsters how to behave when they're around pets and animals.

"As part of our work to encourage kindness towards animals, we have a number of volunteer speakers who go into schools and groups to give talks and help influence the next generation to ensure they become responsible and caring citizens."

Greater Manchester Police has been contacted by Express.co.uk for comment.